Maintaining motivation on your fitness journey can be challenging. Getting started can sometimes be easier than continuing because that starting excitement or new space, new class, new people, can start to wear off. We all start with the best intentions, but life has a way of throwing obstacles in our path. Whether you’re just beginning of working out or have been at it for a while, here are some tips to help you stay motivated and reach your fitness goals.
1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals
Setting specific, realistic goals is crucial. Rather than saying, “I want to get fit,” define what “fit” means to you. Is it losing 10 pounds, running a 5K, or lifting a certain amount of weight? Clear goals give you something tangible to work towards and can keep you focused.
Something else to think about is how our goals change. Remember that this is completely normal to pivot with life. People change, we change, and things around us change, and that is okay. Reassessing our goals is what comes in to play rather than throwing away the towel. Adjusting a fitness goal with another area of focus in fitness will be better than throwing in the fitness towel all together, to sit on the couch to play video games. ‘Like’ substituted with ‘like’. (Note: I’m all for video games, computer life, this is me too… but remember to get in your movement).
2. Create a Plan and Stick to It
A well-structured plan can make all the difference. Schedule your workouts like appointments and stick to them. Write them down in your agenda, and your family’s agenda need be. Consistency is key to making progress. At The Transformation Station, we offer a variety of classes and personal training packages that can be tailored to fit your schedule and fitness level, and even offer a fully functioning branded app including class descriptions/schedule, reservations with seeing your fellow TTS friends on the list, events, the workouts for the day, and our booming socials tab for members to stay supported.
3. Find Your Why
Understanding why you want to get fit can be a powerful motivator. Whether it’s to improve your health, boost your energy levels, or feel more confident, keeping your “why” in mind can help you stay committed, even when things get tough. The same with motivation that can be fleeting, sometimes our reasons why change too. It’s that word again.. pivot. It’s not just for Ross to move a couch either. Self-reflection helps here. This will be Friday’s topic! Questions to Find Your Reason Why.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
Don’t wait until you’ve reached your ultimate goal to celebrate. Acknowledge and celebrate the small milestones along the way. Whether it’s a new personal best, fitting into those jeans, or simply feeling more energetic, these victories can provide the motivation to keep going. Remember those small feel good rewards help too. A picnic with your favourite person/people at the park, something you have been eyeballing for a while but haven’t bit the bullet just yet to purchase. When you see the reward, in physical form, or photo form, it can help release that feel good sensation that tell us that we did an awesome job- we hit the goal! It’s a full circle to keep us going.
5. Stay Accountable
Accountability can come from a variety of sources. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a personal trainer, or a supportive online community, having someone to share your journey with can help you stay on track. Joining a fitness class can help, because even if your accountability work out partner flakes out- you have fellow classmates to support you and high five you along the way. At The Transformation Station, our trainers/coaches are dedicated to helping you stay accountable and motivated as well. We love group fitness for a reason, and we all DO group fitness for the same reason too. Connection. Plus, that thing that’s like “if I were at home, I would have stopped by now, or been distracted” because group fitness allows us to push a little deeper within our scope of practice to get those fitness results we are seeking. Amazing connections and amazing results.
6. Mix It Up
Variety is the spice of life, and the same goes for your workouts. Mixing up your routine can prevent boredom and keep things interesting. Try new classes, switch up your workout routine, or set new challenges for yourself. Our boutique gym offers a wide range of classes to keep you engaged and excited about your fitness journey. Strength training, Metcon, Kickboxing, Circuit.. to Step, Stretch, and Zumba!
7. Listen to Your Body
It’s important to push yourself, but it’s equally important to listen to your body. Rest and recovery are essential parts of any fitness plan. Pay attention to how your body feels and adjust your workouts accordingly. If you’re feeling run down, it’s okay to take a break or opt for a lighter workout. We have a member who taught me ‘maintenance mode’. It’s those days where your best is good enough. I wish I could tell you that every single workout will feel like you gave your 110%, but even superheros have days when they feel weak. It’s the reality! Do your best, forget the rest. In true Tony Horton terminology. I will say though, the energy is always flowing so even just showing up, you may surprise yourself!
8. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Perfection is an impossible standard. Instead, focus on progress. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction. Remember, the goal is to be better than you were yesterday, not perfect. As I always say ‘you’re leaving here stronger than when you walked in’, or another one of my favourites ‘we’re getting stronger one rep at a time!’. Isn’t that the truth 🙂
9. Seek Professional Guidance
If you’re struggling to stay motivated or aren’t seeing the results you want, consider seeking professional guidance. A personal trainer can provide expert advice, customized workout plans, and the motivation you need to stay on track. At The Transformation Station, our experienced trainers are here to help you achieve your fitness goals. If you’d like to see if we would be a good fit, please do reach out! It costs nothing to seek, and perhaps you may also find that missing piece to the puzzle that’ll reshape your entire life.
10. Keep It Fun
Fitness should be enjoyable, not a chore. Find activities that you love and look forward to. Whether it’s a dance class, a group workout, or a solo run in the park, keeping things fun can make a huge difference in your motivation.
Remember, every journey starts with a single step and as I shared on Facebook this morning.. all pathways contain a few puddles every now and then.
-Christina
The Transformation Station 